Waldorf Astoria New York has reopened following a multiyear renovation, with its reimagined guestrooms and three restaurants making their debut.
“In many ways, Waldorf Astoria New York is the most important hotel in the world,” said Chris Nassetta, president/CEO, Hilton. “It is the original luxury property and the place where luxury service was perfected. It not only holds a special place in Hilton’s history, but also in modern history. Today, we build on this legacy as we mark the start of a new chapter for this iconic property. We look forward to once again welcoming guests to experience its timeless charm and modern enhancements, as this hotel and Waldorf Astoria properties around the world set the standard for luxury stays.”
On Sept. 1, the hotel’s 43,000-sq.-ft. of meetings and events spaces will make their return, including the Grand Ballroom and Basildon, Jade and Astor Rooms.
The transformation of the hotel was led by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM), with hotel interiors by Pierre-Yves Rochon (PYR) and residential interiors and amenities designed by Jean-Louis Deniot. The reimagined property recaptures “the grandeur of the hotel’s original Art Deco architecture and rich history,” while integrating contemporary furnishings, cutting-edge technology and high-end finishes, according to Hilton.
Through in-depth archival research and a close collaboration with the Landmarks Preservation Commission, SOM preserved the integrity of the original 1931 design of the property. The tower is both an exterior and interior landmark, with 62,000 sq. ft. inside designated by the commission.
Throughout all of the building’s interior, the restoration celebrates the hotel’s storied legacy, while improving access, creating more space and introducing new pathways for natural light. The hotel’s murals have been preserved, with some of the artworks dating to the 19th century, restored by ArtCare Conservation.
In the new reception area, the same marble used for the historic Peacock Alley columns was employed to construct the fireplace. Portoro marble, mosaics and restored decorative features were preserved and repositioned with contemporary elements such as integrated lighting systems, automated curtains and custom-designed furniture.
The hotel features three distinct food and beverage outlets: the signature brasserie Lex Yard, the Peacock Alley and the Japanese dining concept Yoshoku.
Guests can now arrive at the hotel via three entrances, including a porte-cochère on 49th Street between Lexington Avenue and Park Avenue—the only hotel porte-cochère available in Manhattan—or via Park Avenue or Lexington Avenue between 49th and 50th streets. Returning atop the exterior of the Park Avenue entrance is the restored “Spirit of Achievement” statue from Icelandic artist Nina Saemundsson. The art installation has been perched on the entryway since the hotel opened in 1931.
Following the hotel’s transformation from a 1,400-room hotel to 375 hotel guestrooms and 372 residences, Waldorf Astoria New York will offer some of the largest guestrooms and suites in Manhattan, with the majority of the hotel’s guestrooms exceeding 570 sq. ft.
With more than 11 different guestroom categories, rooms are meant to feel like private apartments, featuring connected zones for living, working and sleeping. Design elements include soft leathers, polished woods and tailored upholstery in a palette of light neutral tones. Custom furniture and artisanal hardware are also inside each room, along with a bespoke bar.
Marble-finished spa-like bathrooms feature walk-in showers, separate toilets and dressing areas, with a direct path from the dressing area to the guest oom door.
The property also includes Waldorf Astoria Residences New York. The 372 condominium residences range from studios to four bedrooms and penthouses, including several marquee residences with private terraces. As part of the exclusive turnkey program with B&B Italia Group, residents will have the option to purchase furnished residences curated by the design firm.
Residents enjoy priority access to the hotel’s services, as well as 50,000 sq. ft. of private residential amenities.
